Riyad Mahrez has been named as the PFA player of the year for the 2015/16 season by his fellow professionals. The Algerian fended off competition from other nominees to pick up the award after Leicester City’s 4-0 win over Swansea City yesterday.
Tottenham’s Dele Alli picked up the young player of the year award for his outstanding debut season.
Mahrez has 17 goals and 11 assists to his name this season after playing 34 matches for the Foxes. He beat Mesut Ozil of Arsenal, Dimitri Payet of West Ham United, Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Kane, and two of his Leicester teammates, Jamie Vardy and N’golo Kante.
Mahrez joined Leicester two seasons ago when they were still in the Championship. This has been the winger’s best season so far and it has really come out of nowhere. His impressive performances have raised the attentions of Barcelona and other big clubs.
He was handed the prize at the Grosvenor Hotel in London. Mahrez thanked his teammates in his acceptance speech. “All the credit is for them, seriously.”
“And for my manager and the staff. Without them I wouldn't receive this award and I wouldn't score. It's the team spirit, and I want to dedicate it to them.It's extra special because if the players vote for me it's because they've seen I've been great this year so I'm happy.”
"Without my team-mates I wouldn't get this award.” added the player. Mahrez was also included in the PFA team of the year which included three of his other teammates and four players from Tottenham Hotspur.
Dele Alli voted as PFA young player of the year
Dele Alli picked up the young player of the year award after scoring 10 goals and assisting a further 9 in an incredible debut season. A year ago Alli was playing for MK Dons in the Championship after being loaned back by Spurs.
Mauricio Pochettino gave the youngster his chance and he has delivered beyond expectations. His contribution has helped Spurs challenge Leicester for the title. His partnership with Harry Kane has been a productive one for Spurs.
Allli could not be present for the award ceremony due to them playing a game on Monday night, so former Spurs player and manager Ossie Ardiles picked up the award on his behalf.
Alli recorded a message on video that was played during the ceremony. He said, “Thank you Ossie, the Tottenham legend for receiving this award for me, Sorry I can't be there tonight but we have a big game tomorrow.”
